Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup finely chopped apples (Granny Smith recommended for tartness)
- 1 cup caramel bits
- For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Feel free to substitute the caramel bits with homemade caramel sauce if you’re feeling adventurous, or swap out the Granny Smith apples for another variety if you prefer a sweeter profile.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This step always reminds me of watching my abuela’s patient hands as she mixed her ingredients with love and care.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples and caramel bits. Take a moment to appreciate the way the tart apples and sweet caramel bits come together, much like the contrasting flavors of my childhood.
- For the cheesecake filling, mix the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Scoop a tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and place a teaspoon of cheesecake filling in the center. Top with another tablespoon of dough, sealing the edges to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart, and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International